Yes it will run. If your processor supports 64-bit then get Windows 7 ultimate 64-bit it would perform better.
With no doubt it will run smoothly. If you r planning fr a 64bit you need at least 4gb of ram. Ur hard disk definitely needs a replacement cos its no use runnin a win7 on a 40gb hdd.
I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.